Apparently we don't even need to go to the library anymore. Free audiobooks and e-books from home? Yes, please.
You know how much I love audiobooks and I was looking forward to joining Audible, when my librarian mentioned Overdrive. So, what is it? From the site:
OverDrive is a leading full-service digital distributor of eBooks, audiobooks, and other digital content. We deliver secure management, DRM protection, and download fulfillment services for publishers, libraries, schools, and retailers--serving millions of end users globally.
Our support for iPod®, iPhone®, iPad™, Android™, Sony® Reader, Kindle® (US libraries only), and thousands of other mobile devices, makes our library platform the most compatible library download service. We also offer the largest collection of premium audiobooks, eBooks, music, and video for the library – all available on a single website for browsing, checking out, and downloading.
A peek at my wishlist:
Okay, I am by no means and expert, in fact I still need to figure quite a few things out, but I have already downloaded and listened to 5 audiobooks and read some rented books on kindle. I'm not sure how similar the selection of titles is for different states or areas but if you head to the main site and enter your zip code it'll probably take you from there.
Facts:
- Unlike other audiobook/ebook rentals this is through public libraries so it is FREE, of course.
- You need to download the OverDrive Media Console.
- There is an OverDrive app, but many titles are not available from there. You can still use your device though, just use console and then transfer.
- Many e-books can go directly to your Kindle or Kindle app and you can use your Adobe Reader.
- You can place holds on popular titles.
- There is a maximum amount of items allowed at a time. In my case it's 5 titles, no matter the format.
- My main issue with it so far is that there is no way to return some titles. So, if you already borrowed 5 for 14 days, for example, and you're done listening to all in 7 days, you must still wait til they expire. (There are some exceptions).
- If you place holds, you must leave room (from the X titles allowed) for when your hold is ready. Once they email you about the title's availability you only have 2 days to checkout or you lose your hold(remember: no returns)
I hope this helps some of you get access to free books in a different, modern and convenient way. They have a super updated collection, including in YA! The only thing you need is a Library Card number from a library that offers this service, which many libraries now do.
